Ilma

Ilma is a female first name that comes from two different traditions. In the Finnish language, it means 'the air', while in Arabic it refers to 'the learned one' or 'the knowledgeable one'.

What does the name Ilma mean?

The name Ilma has two origins. In Finnish, it is associated with 'air', 'space', and 'weather', while the Arabic word ʿilm (علْم) stands for 'knowledge', 'learning', and 'scholarship'. Additionally, Ilma means 'water' in Maltese.

Where does the name Ilma come from?

Ilma is a female first name that has both Arabic and Finnish roots and carries the meaning 'the air'. The etymology consists of the Finnish term ilma, which means 'air', 'space', and 'weather', as well as the Arabic ʿilm (علْم), which means 'knowledge', 'learning', and 'scholarship'. The name is widespread in several languages, including Bosnian, German, Finnish, and Swedish.

How do you pronounce Ilma?

The pronunciation of Ilma is clear and consists of two syllables. In German, the name is usually pronounced as 'Il-ma' [ˈɪlma], starting with a short, bright I sound. The combination of L and M in the middle creates a soft, stable sound center. This gives Ilma a calm, down-to-earth, and harmonious feel.

Popularity

In Germany, the name Ilma enjoys great popularity and currently ranks 1,150th among the most common female first names. Its highest ranking was in 2008, when it reached 933rd place. In the last ten years, Ilma has been chosen as a first name about 200 times, placing it 1,591st in the ten-year statistics. Between 2010 and 2024, the name is ranked 1,835th.

Nicknames & pet names

Illy / Ima / Immi

Famous people

• Ilma de Murska (opera singer from Croatia)
• Ilma Rakusa (writer)
• Ilma Urrutia (Guatemalan model)